Clippers owner Donald Sterling entertained the idea of bringing Brown back to L.A., where he coached the Clippers to consecutive playoff appearances in the '90s, after Brown inquired through intermediaries about succeeding fired GM/coach Mike Dunleavy, multiple sources confirmed.

There is private speculation among league executives that Brown fanned the Clippers' interest simply to motivate the 76ers. Much has been made of Brown supposedly wanting to return to L.A., but he sold his home in Malibu more than a year ago and has no other remaining ties to the area. His wife and kids are all based in Philadelphia.